Crash testing the Africa Bike

 

It will soon be three years since my last attempt to ride to Dakar.   In two months i'll try again and will be joining the Intercontinental Rally with Team Raid Assist run by my adventurous pal Barrie.  

Time to test the new steed in preparation for the big trip in Feb. 

The venerable air cooled DR650 is my weapon of choice, I'll add it to the blog bikes section once this test ride is done and the modifications completed.   I've been ogling DR's, and discussing them endlessly with travel buddy Jason.  They are (apparently) the most used RTW bike.    Jason has bought one too and i look forward to our next trip together. 

The bike has been stripped to the frame, cleaned, oiled and loads of components repaired or replaced.   I need to know it works well, is reliable and the total range i can expect from a tank.  I think my longest stretch without fuel in Africa will be circa 450 - 500 KM

A 200mile mixed road/off-road loop from Nottingham around the Derby Dales and back home was the chosen route.   The pictures attached document the journey. 

For the avoidance of doubt the quarry below had a warning sign that read;

 'This is not the blue lagoon!  No Swimming'

I'm not sure what version of film the sign writer had seen, but i remember more palm trees and boobs!

Chatsworth House below, shamefully this is the closest I've been even after living the area for almost a decade. 

Another impressive house below, imagine the gas bill this winter!  Think i'd have the family moved into one tower. 

I hope its less wet and slippy in West Africa.  I hit the deck on some slimey pebbles and had an impromptu lesson in track side bike repairs. On the bright side, i now know she crashes well. 

After 200 enjoyable miles, and evening in Buxton with my sister, Tory, i returned home.   The DR had 4.5L of fuel remaining, i think my total range is circa 250miles / 400KM.  I'll need to carry another 6litres to make the distance. 

The Ohlins and Cogent suspension is brilliant compared to stock and the Seat Concepts seat is all day comfortable.  I don't like the handle bars or the positioning, i need hand guards, new front pads and a rear tyre. Other than that i think she's about ready.